Seasoned Cooking

As cooler weather settles in and pumpkin becomes a focus in everything from coffee to coffeecake, it's time to remember that it can also star in some amazing savory dishes. Just in time for the weekend, a fantastic curry featuring pumpkin and either venison or lean beef is ready to be enjoyed.

As the days grow shorter and colder, there is nothing like the ultimate comfort food -- chicken soup -- to keep the chills at bay. Instead of opting for the tried and true chicken noodle variety, fire up the stove with a pot of fantastic chicken soup that's brimming with lots of great vegetables and slow-cooked chicken flavor.

Diehard foodies the world over will do almost anything or travel anywhere to get inventive, delicious and memorable meals. Trying things like squid, goat meat, street-vendor tacos, and curry make their mouths water—and, if they are not careful, their waistlines expand. Staying healthy on vacation might sound like a contradiction in terms, but with planning, it's possible to enjoy your travels AND watch your weight.

Faced with at least 3 cups of freshly roasted, pureed pumpkin and looking at much more down the road, I'm asking for advice on what to do with it all. Yep, that's right. Sometimes the foodie is simply overwhelmed and it's nice to reach out for ideas when that happens.

Autumn is the perfect time to entertain outdoors -- most of the bugs are gone, the sun isn't scorching even though it's warm enough to enjoy an afternoon or evening al fresco, and there's a bounty of good things to serve for an outdoor meal. Take advantage of the opportunity before the snow flies!